‘I would’ve been an engineer; harsh maths instruction discouraged me’ — President Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that he might have pursued a career in engineering if Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education had been available during his early school years.

According to him, the method in which mathematics was taught at the time discouraged many students, ultimately influencing his decision to study the arts and humanities.

President Mahama made the remarks at the launch of the National BSTEM programme for basic schools at Sawla D/A Primary and JHS as part of his Resetting Ghana tour of the Savannah Region.

“Maybe if there had been STEM at the time I was in school, I might now be a civil engineer or I’ll be a mechanical engineer or something,” he said.

He recalled the harsh methods used in teaching mathematics during his childhood, describing the learning environment as intimidating for pupils.

“At that time, we used to do mental. They’ll come with a whip, nine times nine, nine times nine, whip. Eighteen times twenty-four, whip. I mean, you just scared the child. How can a child learn mathematics in that kind of atmosphere?” he stated.

He explained that these experiences left a lasting impact and contributed to his eventual shift to the arts and humanities.

“But that is how we grew up. And so if I drifted to the arts and humanities, it was only natural because I was traumatised by the way it was taught. Today, our children have a better opportunity.”

As part of his activities in the Savannah Region, President Mahama is expected to pay courtesy calls on traditional leaders, including the Yagbonwura.

On Saturday, May 23, 2026, he will be accompanied by sector ministers responsible for Roads and Highways, Education, and Youth Development and Empowerment, as well as other senior government officials.

He is also scheduled to engage residents in an open forum to outline his administration’s achievements, ongoing policy interventions, and address concerns raised by the public.